05/02/2024 ISSUE 18

Crab-E-Bills is closing June 1. The popular fresh Sebastian market occupies the west side of the old, dilapidated Hurricane Harbor building on Indian River Drive, which has been condemned. The city originally purchased the riverside property in 2009 as part of its Working Waterfront project. Though the structure is considered “historic” by many, a listing on the National Register of Historic Places apparently never was None of us should have been surprised by what we saw and heard last week at our School Board’s first meeting since the governor handed the Moms For Liberty control of public education in our county. All of us, however, should be alarmed by the harsh and dogmatic manner in which the board’s new Moms-backed majority conducted itself for much of the Monday night session, ignoring the fact that two of its three members were seated without having ever received a single vote from a member of our community. On full display was the Moms’ intolerant, hard-right agenda, complete with the expected venomous attacks on teachers, concocted culture-war propaganda and a blatantly ideological decision that threatens the recent progress made in repairing the board’s relationship with our black community. “We knew this was going to happen as soon as they got a majority,” one prominent schools official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity. “This is just the beginning. It’ll get worse.” That’s difficult to imagine, given the sometimes-bizarre events of the evening. There was board member Gene Posca, viciously accusing teachers of being unpatriotic and failing to set the proper pro-America examples for students, then questioning whether these teachers can be By the time Vero Beach Police Chief David Currey ended an emotion-filled closing argument during which he twice needed to regain his composure, the courtroom of public opinion had already rendered its verdict. The lengthy standing ovation that followed – the highlight of Monday’s special call meeting in a jam-packed City Council chamber – merely punctuated the moment, making sure everyone on the dais knew what was expected. And the council members gave the public what it wanted, throwing out what the audience decided was a frivolous and politically motivated prosecution, and delivered to its embattled police chief a resounding vote of confidence. In a series of unanimously approved motions, the council backed its chief and his department, endorsed the handling of INSIDE To advertise call: 772-559-4187 For circulation or where to pick up your issue call: 772-226-7925 NEWS HEALTH PETS REAL ESTATE 1-7 8 B10 14 ARTS GAMES CALENDAR B1 B7 B11 © 2024 Vero Beach 32963 Media LLC. All rights reserved. MY TAKE BY RAY MCNULTY May 2, 2024 | Volume 11, Issue 18 | Newsstand Price: $1.00 | For breaking news visit VeroNews.com YOUR LOCAL NEWS SOURCE FOR INDIAN RIVER COUNTY RISE IN HEAD/NECK CANCERS RELATED TO HPV INFECTION Your Health, Page 8 TOP YOUNG TALENT DAZZLES IN ‘RISING STARS’ OPERA EVENT In Arts & Theatre, P. B2 Divisive ‘Moms’ agenda a blight on School Board The creation of a waterfront destination on Vero Beach’s mainland moved a step closer to becoming a reality last week, when the city’s Three Corners Selection Committee made the proposal submitted by an Indiana-based development group the early frontrunner in its initial evaluation. In fact, six of the committee’s seven members ranked the $504 million proposal submitted by Clearpath Services as their No. 1 choice among the four the city received in February. “They clearly won the beauty contest,” committee member Jeb Bittner, chairman of the city’s Planning & Zoning Board, said of the Clearpath plan, which he called “very aspirational.” Committee member Rob Bolton, the city’s Water and Sewer Administration director, also was impressed with the proposal submitted by the CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 Emphatic vote of confidence for Vero police chief CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 By Ray McNulty | Staff Writer [email protected] CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 Clearpath’s Three Corners vision takes a clear lead CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 PHOTO: JOSHUA KODIS By Ray McNulty | Staff Writer [email protected] Crab-E-Bills closing, to the dismay of seafood catchers and eaters By Samantha Rohlfing Baita | Staff Writer [email protected]

trusted alone with our children. Going completely off the rails, Posca would later urge the Vero Beach City Council to remove its vice mayor over an innocent and lighthearted Facebook post that was far less repulsive than his politically motivated tweet about the Ku Klux Klan and Democrats last fall. There was also board newcomer Kevin McDonald, participating in his first meeting, voting to remove the tried-and-true Peggy Jones as the panel’s representative on the court-ordered joint work group, which, along with local NAACP leaders, continues to address the issues cited in a 1967 federal desegregation order that still haunts the district. It was McDonald’s vote that provided the 3-2 majority needed to replace Jones with Moms puppet Jackie Rosario, who has proven to be no friend to our Black community. And, as usual, there was Rosario, dutifully carrying the Moms’ banner and bringing up cultural topics – including the district’s policies governing students standing for the Pledge of Allegiance and observing a daily moment of silence – that rev up the fringe group’s supporters but do little to improve public education or student outcomes. It doesn’t seem to matter that this majority was created last month, when Gov. Ron DeSantis, in an entirely political and shamefully petty move, chose to reject now-former board member Brian Barefoot’s efforts to rescind his erroneously submitted resignation in February and replace him with McDonald. Nor does it matter, apparently, that this manufactured majority represents only a small minority of the parents in the district. This is now the Moms’ show, and the headliner of its tumultuous debut episode was Posca, who wasted no time in setting the hostile, take-no-prisoners tone we’ll apparently be forced to endure for as long as this hard-to-watch series runs. Recalling Sebastian River High School’s graduation ceremony last May, Posca launched his attack by taking shots at a “majority of teachers” he alleges did not stand and participate in the recitation of the Pledge. He also criticized the school’s leadership, which he said has allowed teachers to publicly disrespect our constitution, military and nation. “That sort of behavior is a sign – a big red flag – that there’s an underlying problem in that school,” Posca said. “For a majority of teachers to behave that way, openly and in front of everyone, it’s a sign that there’s a dereliction of leadership at Sebastian River High School.” Then, as School Board Chair Teri Barenborg attempted to respond to his unsub2 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | LOCAL NEWS www.veronews.com CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 MY TAKE stantiated allegations, Posca played the role of pseudo-tough bully, rudely interrupting and speaking over her. When Posca finally relented, Barenborg wondered aloud why he waited nearly a year to mention what he claimed to have seen, saying he should have promptly notified Sebastian River principal Christopher Cummings or School Superintendent David Moore. That’s when Posca became combative. “Are you implying that you did not see what I saw – because you said that, if you saw something, you’d respond right away?” Posca asked Barenborg, using an unnecessarily aggressive tone. “Did you somehow miss that almost all the teachers are sitting … and all the students were standing with their hands over their heart?” Barenborg replied that she didn’t know if the teachers were standing because, when reciting the Pledge, she focuses her eyes on the flag, not the audience. “That’s a great excuse,” Posca responded with obvious snark. For what it’s worth: Posca did later correct himself, but only to say he was actually referring to the playing of the national anthem – not the recitation of the Pledge – during the graduation ceremony. Multiple witnesses, though, have told Vero News that Posca also was wrong when he accused teachers of not standing for the anthem. Those witnesses, who said they were on the field for the ceremony, were joined by the local teachers’ union, which last week released a written statement condemning his “intentionally false statements” and “inaccurate and harmful accusations.” The union and its president, Jennifer Freeland, demanded from Posca an immediate retraction and public apology, stating that video evidence shows both students and teachers “standing respectfully” for the anthem. The union’s statement also rebutted Posca’s assertion that parents need to be concerned about their children sharing classrooms with teachers who “don’t love their country,” calling his fears “entirely unfounded and offensive.” The statement continued: “These defamatory remarks undermine the trust and respect between educators and the community.” Later in the meeting, however – after Rosario raised the possibility of installing patriotic programs and complained that too few students were standing for the Pledge at the start of their school days – Posca stubbornly doubled down on his attacks. Not only did he say he stood by his earlier remarks, but he also blamed teachers for students, especially at the high school level, not participating in the recitation of the Pledge. “I don’t blame the kids at all,” Posca said. “I blame the teachers, who are supposed to be their leaders – that are responsible for leading their kids to respect their country, respect the flag.” You’ll notice he didn’t blame parents, which seemed odd, given his stout endorsement of the Moms’ embrace of parental rights. Instead, he clung to the bogus narrative that liberal-minded teachers are indoctrinating our kids, even though there’s no evidence that it happens here. Perhaps Posca, who ran unopposed for his District 1 board seat in 2022, would like to see a loyalty test for teachers. If so, he’d probably be disappointed with the results. Moore staunchly defended the district’s teachers and their patriotism. He also offered a rousing endorsement of Cummings and vouched for the principal’s character. In addition, the superintendent joined Barenborg and Jones – all three regularly visit the district’s schools – in saying they had not witnessed the same standing-forthe-Pledge issues identified by Posca and Rosario. Moore’s biggest challenge, however, is likely to be continuing the progress of the district-NAACP work group with Rosario replacing Jones, who has been the Black community’s most trusted ally on the board. “Peggy Jones, because of her experience and insight, has made important contributions that have been very valuable to the process,” said Tony Brown, president of the local NAACP chapter. “She has been there, done that – as a parent, teacher, principal and now as a board member – and she truly cares about all children in this district. “With her help, we’ve made tremendous progress,” he added. “Things haven’t always moved along as quickly as they could have, but it’s a lot less contentious, and we’re getting closer. We’re closer than we’ve ever been. “But with a new board member coming in, everybody’s concerned.” They should be. Although Rosario’s district includes Gifford, the county’s largest Black community, Brown said she is rarely seen there – “except when it’s election time” – and that she has “done nothing for her Black constituents.” You might remember that Rosario, in response to an oppressive new state law, pushed hard for the removal of the board’s racial equity policy, which was celebrated by the local Black community when it was unanimously adopted in 2020. You might also remember that she resisted Jones’ efforts to replace it. In fact, neither Rosario nor Posca attended the meeting at which the board voted 3-0 to adopt the new policy, which was authored by Jones. Yet, after Posca nominated Rosario, McDonald voted with them. “The work group has been struggling for a long time to reach agreement,” said McDonald, who is being challenged by retired businessman David Dyer in the August election. “It’s only reasonable that a different mem-

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | LOCAL NEWS May 2, 2024 3 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 THREE CORNERS PROPOSALS ber could help bring this to a conclusion.” But to appoint Rosario? “We expect she’s coming in to be divisive and disruptive,” Brown said, “but now she’s got to deal with what’s already memorialized in court, a judge who doesn’t tolerate nonsense, and a pretty good team of lawyers. “She’s not going to be able to get away with the stuff she pulls on the School Board.” Last week, though, it was Posca who stole the show, embarrassing himself and the board by closing with a call for the removal of Vero Beach Vice Mayor Linda Moore – because, in a post on her personal Facebook page, she asked friends to donate sex toys to be used for an art project. For the vice mayor to make such a request, Posca said, she must be “operating under a delusional thought process” and is “clearly unfit” to serve on the council. Contacted last week, Linda Moore downplayed Posca’s ridiculous rant, saying she addressed the matter two weeks earlier, when she deleted the post and acknowledged she had made a mistake within 24 hours. “It was meant in a spirit of fun for a wacky art project, but I really didn’t stop to think how some people might be offended …,” she wrote in her follow-up post. “And as the vice mayor, it was inappropriate.” She’s not going anywhere. Nor should she. Besides, Posca conveniently failed to mention his own past social-media posts, including the sharing of a politically motivated, KKK-related meme that prompted more than 600 people to sign a change. org petition seeking his removal from the board last fall. There was no reason, however, to put a damper on a successful opening night, when the Moms and their board majority publicly flexed their muscles, then gathered in the parking lot to congratulate themselves. This is their time, and we knew it was coming. You don’t like it? Your time is in August. sought. An eatery which occupied the east side of the building was shuttered some time ago, too dangerous to occupy with its underpinning compromised, the wood rotting, making the entire space sad and ghostly. The City Council has now decided to undertake repairs, including a new roof over the entire structure, but a roof cannot be built while the fish market is in operation. Owner Suzy Andrews’ lease with the city expired March 1, and the council in January voted to extend it to June 1 – but no longer. The decision has angered Andrews, the local crabbers, divers and fishermen who supply the seafood sold there, as well as hundreds of loyal customers. Andrews says she has tried to work with the city, and has kept up her part of the building. She still hopes, by some miracle, that somehow the seafood market can remain open during the repair work. But that seems unlikely. “We didn’t kick (Andrews) out. We have no choice,” Mayor Ed Dodd said. “What if a beam fell through the roof and hit someone?” So for the next four weeks, while Andrews and her staff continue to operate the always-busy market, customers can still stop-in for fish – and maybe purchase some décor or memorabilia. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 CRAB-E-BILLS CLOSING Bloomington, Indiana, partnership. He said Clearpath “shot for the moon,” but tempered his enthusiasm with a warning that the plan might be too ambitious and need to be scaled back because of permitting issues relating to its proposed changes to the shoreline. Bolton, Bittner and other committee members weren’t sure state and federal environmental regulators would allow Clearpath to construct the venue presented in its proposal, which includes an event center that would be built on a man-made island on the Indian River lagoon and a kayak/paddleboard canal that would require dredging to alter the shoreline. “It’s not a red light,” Bittner said, “but a yellow light.” Committee members also liked the way Clearpath connected the 17 acres it would develop – on the defunct power plant site, north of the 17th Street bridge – to the property to the south. In addition, Bolton said, the Clearpath plan offers the most public access, most event space and more parking than the other proposals. And City Planning and Development Director Jason Jeffries, who also serves on the committee, said Clearpath provided the “most complete plan” for the repurposing of the Big Blue power plant building. Committee member Vicki Gould, who served as chairwoman of the Three Corners Steering Committee in the early stages of the process, said the Clearpath proposal also appears to create an experience closest to the vision presented by urban planning guru Andres Duany’s DPZ Co-Design firm, which the city hired to develop its concept plan for the site. “This needs to be a special place,” Gould said. “There needs to be a wow factor.” The Clearpath proposal, she added, “was exciting.” It was so exciting, Bittner said, that it made the other proposals – including the committee’s No. 2 choice, submitted by the Vista Blue Vero Beach Resort & Spa group – appear lacking. “This plan is a victim of being compared to Clearpath’s,” Bittner said, adding that the Vista Blue proposal “looks very subdivision-like” and “doesn’t make you want to walk through the campus.” The committee’s biggest criticisms of the Vista Blue proposal were that it was too heavy on retail, too lacking in dining components, too little parking and too small a marina. It also had too much of a private-club, membership-necessary feel. “It’s all about a hotel, with a little bit of dining,” Bolton said, adding that there’s no event center, no cultural or educational features and few recreational amenities open to the public. “It doesn’t excite me in any way.” Jeffries pointed out that the proposal doesn’t provide a plan for the repurposing of Big Blue. Still, four of the committee’s seven members ranked it No. 2, and Bob Jones, chairman of the city’s Finance Commission, put Vista Blue atop his list. The proposal from the Edgewater Group, based in Fort Lauderdale, was ranked No. 3, ahead of only the plan submitted by the Su-Da, Crec Capital, Madison Marquette partnership of Pompano Beach. Committee members viewed the Edgewater proposal as being too marina-centric and lacking in other amenities, including a prominent waterfront village. “This is a marina with a letter of interest from a hotel group,” Bittner said. The proposal submitted by the Su-Da group was hindered by the developer’s late entry into the process, which resulted in a plan that was too bare-bones for the committee’s liking. However, the Su-Da group still has time to add to its proposal and impress the committee. All four developers will make individual presentations to the committee – two on May 13, two on May 17 – in closed-door sessions that are not open to the public. Following those interviews, the committee will convene at 2:30 p.m. on May 17 for a public meeting to discuss and rerank the proposals, then make its recommendation to the City Council. The council will then interview the four groups – one at a time, behind closed doors – on May 21, then conduct a public meeting on May 28 to choose its Three Corners developer. The Three Corners site contains 38 acres of waterfront property at the west end of the 17th Street bridge, at the intersection of Indian River Boulevard and 17th Street. There, the city plans to create a dining, retail, social and recreational hub. The developer selected will build on only the current power plant property. Scene at the recent Three Corners Selection Committee hearing. PHOTO: JOSHUA KODIS

4 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | LOCAL NEWS www.veronews.com The financially troubled Vero Beach Bridge Club plans to push through a comprehensive reform of its bylaws designed to give its present Board of Governors more power, to limit input from members according to some of its critics, and to make it easier to discipline and even expel members. The Board of Governors will present the proposed bylaw changes at a special general membership meeting called for May 6 at 1 p.m., the same time the club’s regular daily duplicate game is supposed to start, indicating the board expects and is aiming for a brief meeting and a quick up-or-down vote. This past Monday, at a special meeting labeled as “private,” the board gave members an opportunity to ask questions about the proposed bylaw changes and a handful of members showed up to voice their concerns, turning the meeting into, at times, a contentious affair. Asked if anything major will change as a result of the comments made by members, Board President Denis Conlon said, “probably nothing.” One provision of the new bylaws would extend term limits, letting board members serve three consecutive terms instead of the current two. They would also allow the board to have meetings only every other month, although Conlon said he intends to continue to have monthly meetings. “There seems to be an undercurrent here of shutting out members from having any input in the way the club is run,” one member said. Another member commented that the bylaw rewrite seemed a deliberate attempt to “stamp out any type of dissent,” especially coupled with the fact that the longest part of any new bylaws text deals with disciplinary procedures for suspensions or expulsions. “This seems very punitive,” one member said. “I feel threatened,” said another. Conlon was unapologetic about the intent of the new bylaw clauses on discipline, admitting that the board could well decide “in its infinite wisdom” that a member who publishes an unfavorable article about the policies of the present board or management of the club has engaged in acts detrimental to the club. The Board could then, by majority vote, decide to expel such a member. “If we determine that anything was detrimental to the interests of the club,” Conlon said, “you’re out of here – and don’t let the door hit you’re a-- on the way out.” Any move for expulsion, according to the new bylaws, would not even have to go By Pieter VanBennekom Staff Writer Emeritus through the club’s standing Conduct and Ethics Committee, which deals with unacceptable behavior at the bridge tables. There was universal agreement at the meeting that the club’s main problem remains stemming the steady erosion of membership and the declining table count of daily bridge games, and that the bylaw rewrite does not address that core problem. “This is just something that we felt needed to be done,” said Ann Espy, a board member who was part of a special three-person committee on bylaw reform. Another bylaw change will allow the club to hire anyone to teach bridge classes, eliminating the need for club teachers to be certified by the national organization, the American Contract Bridge League (ACBL), which one member said cannot be considered a positive step for growing membership. The last time the 64-year-old club’s bylaws were updated was in 2020, just before the COVID pandemic shut down face-to-face play at the club for almost two years. Since the restart of in-person bridge, membership in the club has dwindled to just over half of pre-pandemic levels (from over 1,100 to just over 600) and table count is a fraction of what it was pre-COVID. The club now has too much space and last year the board started exploring the sale of all or part of its club-owned building, a former bowling alley on 14th Avenue across from the Crestlawn Cemetery, but no serious takers have been found so far. To stop sizable financial losses, the club last year eliminated the office manager position, and Board Treasurer Stevan Trooboff said the club’s finances have now been stabilized to the point that the club can survive the lean summer months when many of the club’s snowbird members are up north. One of the last parcels of agricultural land left on the barrier island was rezoned last week to allow up to three single-family homes per acre, paving the way for a new development on 19.6 acres of former citrus groves just north of the Island Club. The Oak Hammock property at 8510 Jungle Trail does not extend to A1A and is prohibited by county regulations from having its entrance on the Jungle Trail, so construction workers and future residents will have to turn off A1A onto Island Club Manor to reach the new subdivision’s entrance. The Board of County Commissioners voted 4 to 1 in favor of the rezoning with Commissioner Laura Moss rejecting the request from Jan Jelmby of Helmet House Construction, Manor Development LLC and John’s Island resident Alan Wilkinson, the property’s owner. Wilkinson formed Manor Development LLC to buy the parcel in 2022 for $4.5 million from Premier Citrus. It is carved into the southern edge of what’s known as the Captain Forster Hammock Preserve, just north of the northern town limits of Indian River Shores. The surrounding land consists of a mixture of conservation land to the north and east, single family development to the south, and the Indian River to the west. The single-family, up to three units per acre or RS3 zoning allows 15 times the density than the previous A1 agricultural, one unit per five acres zoning. Initial plans for developing the property submitted last summer met substantial challenges. The county said the plans would have to be reworked and resubmitted because they did not include enough information to either approve or disapprove of the project. At the April 23 commissioners meeting, county staff recommended the change as compatible with the surrounding area and consistent with the county’s adopted comprehensive plan and land development regulations. With the exception of Moss, who was concerned about possible wetlands and endangered species and that the rezoning was in harmony with the public interest, all agreed that the applicant met the criteria. “If it is not changed, we will have future inconsistency,” said Commissioner Joseph Flescher. “This property met the criteria,” Commissioner Joseph Earman agreed. “This land was previously grove land. I highly doubt it contains wetlands,” said Chris Balter, chief of Long Range Planning, adding that a wetlands delineation would be done later in the process and that any endangered species would also be identified. If either is found, mitigation will occur at a low level, or a buffer will be created if the findings are at a higher level. “We have builtin regulations,” Balcer said. Robert and Beth Shapiro, residents of Island Club Manor, expressed concern during the public hearing, saying they “fell in love with Vero Beach” when they saw it. “It was not a concrete jungle. In a few years, much of the area is unrecognizable,” said Beth Shapiro, adding, “the property would be better zoned for conservation.” In addition, the couple is worried about the noise and dust that will come from the construction process. All hands not on deck with Bridge Club board’s bid to win more power Rezoning of island agricultural parcel paves the way for more new residences By Regina Marcazzo-Skarka | Staff Writer

Giving Pets a New Leash on Life! Dr. Amber Callaway Lewis DVM, CCRT, CAMP Dr. Michele Morissette DC, CAC Physical Rehabilitation and Non-Surgical Management Options Advanced Arthritis Management Chiropractic Care Therapeutic and Medical Massage Senior and Puppy Fitness 825 18th Street Vero Beach, FL 32960 (772) 492-6066 www.tcanimalrehab.com Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | LOCAL NEWS May 2, 2024 5 NEWS OTHERS MISS, OR CHOOSE TO IGNORE | PUBLISHED WEEKLY MILTON R. BENJAMIN President and Publisher | [email protected] | 772.559.4187 LOCATED AT 4855 NORTH A1A, VERO BEACH, FL 32963 | 772.226.7925 STEVEN M. THOMAS Managing Editor | [email protected] | 772.453.1196 DAN ALEXANDER Creative Director | [email protected] | 772.539.2700 Associate Editor: Paul Keaney, Asst. Managing Editor: Lisa Zahner, Society Editor: Mary Schenkel, Reporters: Stephanie LaBaff, Ray McNulty, Samantha Rohlfing Baita, George Andreassi, Columnists: Kerry Firth, Ellen Fischer, Tina Rondeau, The Bonz, Photographer: Joshua Kodis, Graphic Designers: Robert Simonson, Jennifer Greenaway, Larissa Bemesderfer JUDY DAVIS Director of Advertising [email protected] | 772.633.1115 KATHLEEN MACGLENNON | [email protected] | 772.633.0753 MARIO CORBICIERO | [email protected] | 772.559.5999 ADVERTISING SALES It’s report card time again for area hospitals and the big winner in this spring’s LeapFrog safety grades is HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital, Vero’s closest trauma center, which raised its overall grade from a B to an A. Both Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital and Steward Sebastian River Medical Center again earned overall ratings of B for 35 categories of patient safety statistics, and for how much the hospital’s culture promotes practices that improve patient safety. LeapFrog grades are calculated and released twice a year in the spring and fall. For the past two years, Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital has endured much criticism about its grade for what seems like a very simple, almost zero cost practice. In the Fall of 2022 and Spring of 2023 the hospital scored 15 out of 100 points in the Hand Hygiene category. Then last fall that rose to a still-failing grade of 40 out of 100. Hospital leadership publicly promised that grade would improve, but in the grades that came out this week, the score was still a dismal 40. The national mean score for Hand Hygiene is 78.65. LeapFrog Hospital Safety Grades Analyst Alexandra Campione Campione, who keeps an eye on hospitals here because she has relatives who live in John’s Island, explained that the Hand Hygiene score is not simply a matter of how often clinical staff wash their hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer throughout the workday or before and after patient contact. She said each hospital is graded on the training it has in place regarding hand-washing, and whether doctors, nurses and health aides are provided ample and convenient access to hand sanitizer or soap dispensers that are kept consistently full of product and operational. Vero’s hospital also saw a few marked increases in infection rates associated with certain medical and surgical procedures. The number of infections after colon surgery doubled from Fall 2023 to Spring 2024. The incidence of respiratory failure after surgery rose 127 percent over the past six months. The rate of improper wound healing increased between 150 percent between fall and spring. The rate of antibiotic-resistant MRSA infections has been an issue for the hospital to some extent since the pandemic, and for the spring grades that number improved by 10 percent. Unfortunately, however, Cleveland Clinic Indian River still has about twice the incidence of MRSA infection as the national mean. The data in most of the infection categories is collected through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, so those categories only include statistics for Medicare and Medicaid recipients, not the broad patient base in the hospital. On a positive note, Cleveland Clinic had zero foreign objects left in patients after surgery, zero air embolisms, and very low occurrences of infection after the insertion of a central line or a catheter. The number of falls and trauma was also about four times lower than the national average. Communication is another important part of patient safety, so it figures prominently in the LeapFrog grades. In four out of five communication categories – nurse communication, doctor communication, discharge instructions and staff responsiveness – Cleveland Clinic scored a solid B. The hospital slipped into the D-zone scoring a 69 for not clearly communicating about medicines patients are taking or being given. The bright spots for Cleveland Clinic Indian River were excellent, near-perfect or perfect scores for ICU Physician Staffing, Barcode Medication Administration, Computerized Physician Order Entry, Leadership Structures and Systems and a category called Culture Measurement, Feedback and Intervention. Lawnwood only area hospital to see a leap in safety grade By Lisa Zahner | Staff Writer [email protected] HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital. FILE PHOTO

6 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | LOCAL NEWS www.veronews.com the matter by City Manager Monte Falls, and terminated any further investigation of the still-unsubstantiated allegations pushed by two local businessmen. “I think we have heard from our community,” Mayor John Cotugno said of the meeting, at which supporters of both Currey and Falls filled the room. Among those who spoke on Currey’s behalf were former City Council members Tony Young, Joe Graves, Ken Daige, Brian Heady and Laura Moss, now a county commissioner. Other speakers included retired city managers Jim O’Connor and Jim Gabbard, who also served as police chief; Deputy Chief Matt Monaco and Lieutenant Matt Harrelson; Assistant State Attorney Bill Long, who heads the agency’s Indian River County office and represented State Attorney Tom Bakkedahl; and former county commissioner Tom Lowther. Long praised Currey’s department, saying, “There’s not an agency I’d rather work with than the Vero Beach Police Department.” Lowther, a candidate in more local races here than anyone currently holding office, downplayed the complaints against Currey, saying, “This is Politics 101.” Also in the overwhelmingly pro-Currey audience were Sebastian Police Chief Daniel Acosta, Fellsmere Police Chief Keith Touchberry and Stuart Police Chief Joseph Tumminelli; County Judge Nicole Menz; and local business leaders Joe Conrado, owner of multiple McDonald’s restaurants in the Vero Beach area, and Jeff Palleschi, owner of 21st Amendment Distillery. In addition, family members of local murder victims Brian Simpson and Diana Duve attended the meeting, along with Elaine Coppola, whose son Nick was killed when the bicycle he was riding was struck by a drunk driver on the 17th Street Bridge in 2014. Heady, who was once removed from this same chamber by Currey’s officers during a council meeting, described the allegations made against the chief as an “outrage” and “BS from the very beginning,” adding, “Mr. Currey, I’m sorry you’re going through this. You don’t deserve this.” Graves went a step further, saying Currey and Falls deserve an apology from their accusers. That’s unlikely to happen, however. The complaints against Currey were launched by Lanse Padgett, a Central Beach resident who owns Gorilla Ammunition in Sebastian, and Tom Corr, a celebrated local philanthropist who lives at John’s Island and is president of the wildly successful, Vero Beach-based George E. Warren Corporation. For the past eight months, they’ve been trying to convince city officials that Vero Beach needs a new police chief, alleging that Currey is unfit for the job. They claim the department under Currey’s administration closes cases that demand further investigation, deflects and dodges any questioning of its performance and practices, and has created an intolerant work environment in which employees are afraid to speak openly about agency matters. A former state prosecutor, Padgett said not removing Currey places the public’s safety in jeopardy. Yet, Padgett, who sat through Monday’s meeting, did not go to the podium and voice his concerns. Instead, he discussed them afterward, during an interview with several news reporters on the sidewalk in front of City Hall. “The things that they were saying are so far from the truth … I honestly don’t know if I would be able to contain myself in a professional manner,” Padgett replied when asked why he didn’t address the council. Padgett said he has spoken to about 20 officers who are concerned about their work environment but fear retaliation if they speak out. He said some of those officers reached out to him. “I’ll regroup and talk to them, and say, ‘What do you want me to do? Do you want to continue this? Do you want to stand up for yourselves? If so, do you want me to help you?’” Padgett said. For now, at least, Currey’s job appears safe. Meanwhile, Falls said that he plans to resume his focus on the major projects the city has undertaken. “Since I have not received any information that shows anything illegal, immoral or unethical – nor have I received anything that would result in disciplinary action, much less termination, or any statements that I have repeatedly been told I would receive – we will no longer be dedicating resources to this issue,” Falls said at the meeting. “It is time to move on.” Both the council and the audience agreed. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 SUPPORT FOR CHIEF CURREY Vero Beach Police Chief David Currey, right, at the City Council’s special call meeting. PHOTO: JOSHUA KODIS

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH May 2, 2024 7 Text

8 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH www.veronews.com Head and neck cancers used to be primarily associated with tobacco and alcohol consumption, but there’s been a notable surge in new head and neck cancers related to the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly among younger individuals. This demographic shift is attributed to changes in sexual behaviors and an increase in HPV infections. “There are 150-200 subtypes of HPV,” said Dr. Brian Burkey, ENT-Otolaryngologist with Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital. “Only about five are carcinogenic and only three subtypes lead to head and neck cancers. Those are the same three subtypes that cause cervical cancer in women. Back in 2015 cervical cancer in women was the highest rate of HPV cancer, but today the No. 1 site of HPV-related cancer is in the head and neck.” While the overall incidence of head and neck cancers has stabilized in recent years, the proportion of cases linked to HPV has been steadily increasing, presenting new challenges in prevention and treatment. According to Dr. Burkey, head and neck cancers occur between the clavicle and the base of the skull, so brain cancer is not in the category. While things like carotid cancer, thyroid cancer and skin cancer can occur in that area, generally head and neck cancer refers to cancer of the upper airway and digestive track that runs from the lips down to the beginning of the esophagus, including cancers of the voice box, cancers of the oral cavity, primarily the tongue, and cancers of the oropharynx, which is the part of the throat behind the mouth from the soft palate down to the beginning of the larynx. “Ninety percent of cancers in the upper digestive tract are squamous cell carcinoma, which are now classified as either non-viral or virally related,” Dr. Burkey said. “Those that are virally related come from the human papillomavirus string of cell carcinoma. HPV-related head and neck cancers are of the oropharynx only – meaning they only manifest in the back of the tongue and the tonsils. They are completely different in terms of how they present, their etiology, their presentation in the patient and their prognosis. It’s a completely different disease that was first recognized in 2000 and widely accepted around 2005.” Oropharyngeal cancers usually present with a bump on the neck under the jaw. They look different than other cancers because they tend to be small primary cancers in general, with very early big cystic lymph nodes. Other cancers are big primary cancers with late, smaller lymph node manifestations. Usually, they can be diagnosed visually, but a biopsy will confirm whether the cancer is viral or non-viral. Treatment for both HPV-related and non-HPV-related head and neck cancers Concerning rise in head and neck cancers related to HPV By Kerry Firth | Correspondent

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH May 2, 2024 9 are basically the same, using surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. But the prognosis is highly different. The cure rate for HPV-related cancers is in the 80 percent to 90 percent range. In contrast, the cure rate for non-HPV-related cancer is in the 30 percent to 50 percent range. “The disparity in cure rates comes from the cancer itself and its host,” Dr. Burkey explained. “The HPV cancer is a more sensitive tumor. It responds more readily to radiation and because it’s more localized it is much more surgery sensitive so we can treat it more aggressively, usually with robotic surgery. It’s also in a healthier population that isn’t burdened with high blood pressure or lung or heart disease.” The Centers for Disease Control states that nearly everyone will get HPV at some point in their lives. HPV is very common, affecting more than 42 million Americans, with about 13 million, including teens, becoming infected each year. The virus is spread through intimate skin to skin contact during vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has the virus even if they don’t have signs or symptoms. Nine out 10 HPV infections will go away by themselves within two years, but some HPV infections can cause cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, anus and oropharyngeal cancer. HPV causes about 36,000 cases of cancer in the United States each year. “Before 2009 my patients were primarily presenting with larynx or tongue cancer linked to tobacco usage. Now, two thirds of my patients are here for HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer. They are generally younger, in their 40s and 50s, and live healthy lifestyles. The primary risk factors for HPV related head and neck cancer are multiple sexual partners, oral sex, marijuana usage and not being vaccinated.” Fortunately, there is a very effective vaccination that can protect both male and females from HPV cancers. The CDC recommends that everyone through the age of 26 years should get the HPV vaccine starting at age 9. Early protection works best, long before a child is ever exposed to the virus through sexual contact. Some adults up to age 45 may choose to get vaccinated as well, although more people in this range have been exposed to HPV already. Thanks to the vaccine, HPV infections and cervical precancers have dropped dramatically since 2006 when the vaccines were first used in the United States. Infections with HPV types that cause most HPV cancers have dropped 88 percent in teen girls, 81 percent in young adult women and 40 percent among women overall. “Theoretically, the HPV vaccine provides lifetime protection,” Dr. Burkey said. “It’s been shown to prevent or decrease the incidence of cervical cancer and it’s assumed it will do the same for head and neck cancer. About 60 percent of women in the United States are vaccinated but only about 30 percent of men. That means 70 percent of the men are unvaccinated and there’s a whole population out there who have never been vaccinated and potentially carrying the virus so you can understand the surge in HPV-related head and neck cancers.” HPV vaccination rates, particularly in adolescents, are crucial in reducing the incidence of HPV-related cancers including those affecting the head and neck, according to doctors and researchers. Dr. Brian Burkey, M.D., MEd, FACS, is Division Chief of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital. In addition to seeing patients, he also serves as vicechief of the Integrated Surgical Institute for Cleveland Clinic Florida. He earned his medical degree at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, completed his otolaryngology residency training at the University of Michigan, and his fellowship in head and neck oncologic and reconstructive surgery at Ohio State University. His office is located at the Scully-Welsh Cancer Center at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, 3555 10th Court, Vero Beach. The phone number is 772-563-4673. Dr. Brian Burkey. PHOTO: JOSHUA KODIS

10 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH www.veronews.com A new Harvard-led study builds on earlier research suggesting forgiveness boosts our mental wellbeing by reducing anxiety and depression, which adds to other recent evidence that it can also ease stress, improve sleep, and lower blood pressure and heart rate. But forgiving is easier said than done, isn’t it? “It is,” says DeAnn Collins, licensed clinical social worker and behavioral services clinical manager at Health First’s Behavioral Wellness. “I’ve learned that generally it’s an intentional decision to let go of hurt about an offense someone committed. People can learn how to forgive, but sometimes professional help is needed if they can’t do it on their own.” The definition of forgiveness is surprisingly basic. It’s simply replacing ill will toward an offender with goodwill. What forgiveness doesn’t mean is a bit more nuanced: It doesn’t condone the harm you’ve suffered and it definitely doesn’t mean you’re expected to forget it. It’s not excusing, explaining or exonerating, necessarily, but rather accepting that what happened is over and recognizing that resentment toward another hurts us more than them. Studies have found that some people are just naturally more forgiving than others. Consequently, they tend to be more satisfied with their lives and to have less depression, anxiety, stress and anger. People who hang on to grudges, however, are more likely to experience severe depression and PTSD, as well as other health conditions. Some 62 percent of American adults say they need more forgiveness in their personal lives, according to a survey by the nonprofit Fetzer Institute. Collins says many people have their first experience holding a grudge during childhood. It’s a natural response and a defense mechanism because they don’t want to be hurt again. Nationally known psychologist Dr. Eileen Kennedy-Moore discussed how parents can teach children about forgiveness in a Psychology Today article. She wrote, “Children watch how important adults in their lives respond when someone does something unkind. Do they let it go or hold a grudge? Do they complain to others or speak directly to the person involved? How long does it take them to get over being mad or hurt? How do they get over it? “Sometimes parents instruct children directly about how to respond to hurts caused by friends. Depending on the situation and the family values, parents ‘Forgiveness’ study: Letting go of hurt helps mental health By Jackie Holfelder | Correspondent

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH May 2, 2024 11 may promote responses that range from ‘Don’t let him walk all over you!’ to ‘He didn’t mean it’ or ‘Everyone makes mistakes.’ There’s a delicate balance that children need to strike when it comes to forgiveness.” Exactly what happens to your overall health when you learn how to forgive? Well, according to Johns Hopkins University, the good news is that studies have found that the act of forgiveness can reap huge rewards for your health. And research points to an increase in the forgiveness/health connection as you age. “There is an enormous physical burden to being hurt and disappointed,” says Karen Swartz, M.D., director of the Mood Disorders Adult Consultation Clinic at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. Chronic anger puts you into a fight-orflight mode, which results in numerous changes in heart rate, blood pressure and immune response. Those changes, then, increase the risk of depression, heart disease and diabetes, among other conditions. Forgiveness, however, calms stress levels, leading to improved health. Collins says we give other people a large amount of power over us when we refuse to forgive them. She cites people who were able to turn terrible adversity into a positive situation – like the moms who founded Mothers Against Drunk Driving. “Sometimes we carry a lot of emotional baggage from a situation that was dealt to us,” she says, but forgiveness and positive action can bring healing. How can you move toward a state of forgiveness? Mayo Clinic’s newsletter says that forgiveness is a commitment to change. It takes practice. You might try the following to help you get started: Recognize the value of forgiveness and how it can improve your life. Identify what needs healing and who you want to forgive. Join a support group or see a counselor. Acknowledge your emotions about the harm done to you, recognize how those emotions affect your behavior, and work to release them. Choose to forgive the person who has offended you. Release the control and power that the offending person and situation have had in your life. One mistake people often make is forgiving someone and expecting them to change as a result. “If you do that, you’re setting yourself up to be hurt again,” says Collins. “We have no control over someone else’s actions or behavior.” Has social media made it harder to forgive? According is Martha Minow, a Harvard Law professor, the answer is yes. “Forgiveness often requires proximity,” she says. The lack of eye contact in digital media, along with the disinhibition effect, makes it easier to choose rage over forgiving. “It takes time and patience to forgive someone,” she adds. “You have to actually listen and hear the apology and decide if it’s trustworthy. You can’t do that online.” DeAnn Collins is a licensed clinical social worker and behavioral services clinical manager at Health First’s Behavioral Wellness where she oversees intensive outpatient programs and assesses new patients. She has specialized in senior mental health needs and treatments. Her office is located at 3661 South Babcock, Melbourne. Call 321-434-7604 or visit HF.org/BehavioralWellness. DeAnn Collins. PHOTO: JOSHUA KODIS

12 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH www.veronews.com Melissa Hart finds joy in running alone. “It is just magical,” she said. A few times a week, the 54-year-old takes to the trails near her home in Eugene, Ore. Solo. “I’m really busy, and I don’t have time to run with anybody and sacrifice that alone time and that meditation to run with somebody and just talk,” said Hart, a writer and teacher. An estimated 168 million Americans exercise outdoors, including hiking, walking and running. The benefits to body and spirit are indisputable. Time in nature lowers stress levels and can ease both anxiety and depression. But fear can make some people, especially women, hesitant to venture into nature alone, particularly after high-profile tragedies like the killings of nursing student Laken Riley in Athens, Ga., in February and teacher Eliza Fletcher in Memphis in September 2022. Both women were attacked while running alone. Fitness experts say that while dangers exist – crime, but more frequently, injuries – they can be well managed with preparation. Running or hiking solo? How to stay safer while exercising alone By Allison Salerno | The Washington Post

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | YOUR HEALTH May 2, 2024 13 “The biggest danger for runners/ hikers is falls that can break bones, followed by encounters with cars for road runners, along with other uncontrollable environmental factors,” such as sudden weather changes or animal encounters, said Jean Knaack, CEO of the Road Runners Club of America. Knaack, 52, has been running on her own since her 20s. “When my kids were really little, it was like that was my time when I could kind of step away, get a little break, being a full-time working mom,” she said. Here are nine tips for staying safe while running or hiking outdoors. 1. Trust your instincts and stay aware Knaack advises women to trust their instincts, vary their running routes, avoid oversharing on social media and stay aware of their surroundings. Lizeth Aparicio, 32, grew up running with her father near their home in Chino Hills, Calif. Today she is in a running club, but she mostly runs alone. “It’s your time for you to just be with yourself and take care of yourself first so you can do the rest that comes with a crazy life,” said Aparicio, an account manager for a sports app. Aparicio, who was hit by a car in a crosswalk when she was in college, now runs in bike lanes, facing the traffic, and scoots to the side when cyclists approach. 2. Prepare for your known health risks For Maria Wishart, 50, of Duncannon, Pa., her service dog, Boots, is an essential part of her trail-safety preparations. As a solo hiker and backpacker with severe asthma, Wishart relies on Boots, a 3-year-old Australian shepherd/ Australian cattle dog mix, who has been trained to predict Wishart’s asthma symptoms and does so with about 95 percent accuracy. Boots warns Wishart of impending asthma attacks, which prompts her to use her albuterol inhaler and rest. Sometimes, all Wishart needs is a pause to slow her breathing; other times, she stops to rest before resuming her hike. 3. Tell others where you are going Let a family member or friend know “where you are going, the trails you are hiking, when you will return and how, and your emergency plans,” the website HikeSafe advises. 4. Check the weather – often “Make sure to keep checking the forecast during the hike, because weather at the top of the mountain can be unpredictable and temperature can drop 30 to 50 degrees in a short time, even in the summer,” according to the Emily M. Sotelo Safety and Persistence Charitable Foundation, which is named after a young woman who died hiking in the White Mountains of New Hampshire in November 2022. 5. Cultivate situational awareness “If you feel something wrong in your gut, don’t be polite. Just get out of the situation. If you don’t feel comfortable in an emergency, always call 911,” said Dakota Jackson, director of visitor engagement for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. 6. Carry 10 essentials The American Hiking Society recommends essentials including a first-aid kit, appropriate footwear, and a map and compass as a backup to GPS. Bring calorie-dense food for the hike and some extra in case you get lost or delayed. Bring plenty of water and a way to purify it. Dress in layers so you’re prepared for weather changes. Bring a knife or multitool, as well as a whistle, light and tools for starting an emergency fire. Sun protection and shelter are also on the list. For hikers, it’s the elements, not crime, that are the biggest factors in outdoors mishaps, Jackson said. “The biggest risks for any hiker or trail runner, not just for women, are tickborne illnesses, being underprepared for your hike or weather situation, and slips and falls while you’re out hiking alone,” she said. Jackson, 31, hiked the length of the Appalachian Trail in 2015. “My days were typically spent alone,” she said. “There is a sense of freedom to it because you have nowhere to be but where you are – on trail. It’s very empowering because you have everything that you need on your back.” 7. Use headphones on low volume Knaack, of the Road Runners Club of America, advised: “Keep the volume low enough that you can maintain awareness of your surroundings. Don’t zone out in unpopulated areas – especially on quiet trails.” 8. Carry a satellite beacon The device can send emergency SOS messages. The Fowler-O’Sullivan Foundation, created to honor missing Pacific Crest Trail hikers Kris Fowler and David O’Sullivan, gives free Garmin inReach devices to PCT hikers every year as part of its mission to keep hikers safe. Wishart also carries two working cellphones, a cell charger and a satellite communicator, and she wears a custom bracelet with her name and emergency contacts on it. The goal, she said, is that in the event of an injury or illness that leaves her disoriented or worse, her husband can be contacted and medical personnel will know her medical condition and medications. 9. Focus on fitness Wishart also encouraged hikers to do yoga daily. She said it improves her mobility and balance on trail and reduces the chance of injuries. She also always lets at least one person know her route and when she expects to return. Until she began hiking in 2013, “I did not trust people, especially men,” she said, because of an assault she survived in her late 20s. “Going out on the trail taught me to trust people again.”

Tidy green hedging, low palms and a thick carpet of grass showcase the trim and tidy home at 2169 Harwick Circle SW in Millstone South. The 3-bedroom, 2-bath, 1,690-squarefoot pool home has a light taupe-andwhite exterior, handsome roof lines and arched, east-facing entry porch evoking a sense of welcome. Inside, soft white walls and millwork, high ceilings and the sand-hued carpeting and tile enhance the home’s light and airy vibe. Through an archway just left from the foyer is the door to the two-car garage. To the right of the foyer are the two guest bedrooms and shared bath. The entrance hallway leads into the open L-shaped kitchen, dining room and living room space. With a neutral, ceramic-tiled floor, the open, all-white kitchen glows with beautiful new quartz countertops – a handsome contrast to the stainless-steel appliances. The white cabinetry features simple gold-tone bar pulls and crown molding. The backsplash is blue and white tile. The long, wide quartz-topped island contains storage, sink and dishwasher on the kitchen side and a snack bar along the outside, where the kitchen flows into the large living room. The living room, which features a custom, wall-to-wall entertainment unit, has plenty of space for a variety of seating configurations and the nice, wide double windows provide views west to the grassy, white vinyl fenced backyard. A saltwater pool and spacious pool deck and patio are neatly edged on three sides with a wide row of pebbles. You’ll see for yourself what a terrific space the back yard is for all sorts of day or evening get-togethers; it’s also a great place for kids to play and dogs to run. Back inside, the dining room space flows west from the kitchen, past the living room wall. In contrast to the white, wide-panel interior wall, the living room and dining room glow with a very soft blue wall to the west, with windows offering a pool and backyard view. The dining room also has sliders to the north, out to a cozy covered patio, open on the west and north sides. The laundry room contains washer, dryer, a long wall shelf and a pair of white Much to cherish about pool home in Millstone South By Samantha Rohlfing Baita | Staff Writer [email protected]

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | REAL ESTATE May 2, 2024 15 Community: Millstone South Year built: 2018 Construction: CBS; shingle roof Home size: 1,690 square feet Lot size: .45 acre Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 full baths Additional features: Front faces east; central heat/air; paved driveway; 2-car garage; 2023 saltwater pool; covered porch/ patio; all-white kitchen w/upgraded quartz countertops, recessed lighting, custom cabinetry, pantry and stainless-steel appliances; built-in entertainment center; ceiling fans; coffee bar; wine rack; 6-ft. high, 2023 vinyl back-yard privacy fence; irrigation sprinkler; pet-friendly HOA, clubhouse, tennis courts, gym, community pool; county sewer, public water. Listing agency: AMAC Alex MacWilliam Real Estate Listing agents: Rick Wykoff, 772-321-6462, and Jessica Mahoney, 904-654-3456 Listing price: $465,000 2169 HARWICK CIRCLE SW wall cabinets, as well as eye-catching aqua walls. Off the dining room to the south is the primary bedroom, a peaceful space, predominantly white, with an accent wall behind the headboard – a large, framed wood panels in a restful medium blue. There is a white ceiling fan and a window to the west with a pool view. The primary bathroom, too, is predominantly white, with a long wooden two-basin vanity, handsome black and white striated granite counter top and splash, a large unframed mirror with a four-bulb track light above. A w/c and a large, glass-front shower with recessed light and built-in shelves complete the bath. The primary suite also contains a large, custom walk-in closet with hanging space, shelving and drawers. Off the foyer on the home’s north side are the two guest or children’s bedrooms. Each has a closet, toes-friendly carpeting, ceiling fan and window with pleasant neighborhood view. One is in a delicate pink the other in whisper soft lilac. Their shared, all-white full bath contains a tub shower and light-wood, white-topped vanity with single basin, black-framed mirror and sleek black fixtures. From this lovely neighborhood, it’s a convenient drive to the art gallery, restaurant and pub district in downtown Vero Beach, and it takes only a few minutes longer to reach Vero’s charming island village, with up-scale boutiques, restaurants, pubs and entertainment, live theater, fine art museum, marina and dog park, and, of course, its famous beaches.

16 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | REAL ESTATE www.veronews.com Seven property insurers in Florida went bankrupt in 2021 and 2022. The bankruptcies left thousands of homeowners scrambling to get new coverage, which often came with a big increase in cost. Worse, many had outstanding claims for hurricane damage that had not been addressed. Jacqueline Ravelo, a Miami homeowner, was among them. Her roof was damaged by Hurricane Irma in 2017. Her insurance company, Avatar Property and Casualty, covered the cost of some repairs. But the roof continued to leak and mold grew inside the house, she said. Ravelo sued Avatar to compensate her for further repairs, which she said came to $50,000. When they were on the verge of settling, she said, the company went out of business. Avatar and the six other companies that folded had something in common: They had all been rated A (“exceptional”) or higher by Demotech, Inc., an Ohio-based insurance ratings firm. (One of those insurers was also rated Aby competitor AM Best Co. Inc.) In fact, nearly 20 percent of the companies doing business in Florida that Demotech rated as financially stable went insolvent during the period 2009 to 2022, according to a working paper by researchers at Harvard University, Columbia University and the Federal Reserve that was released by Harvard Business School in December. In their data sample, 99.7 percent of the ratings issued by Demotech were an A or above. That’s a signal, the researchers said, that Florida’s insurance market may be full of weak players and is even more precarious than already known. “Our research shows that lax regulation and monitoring of property insurers makes Florida mortgage markets far more exposed to climate risk than people might think,” said Parinitha Sastry, an author of the report and an assistant professor of finance at Columbia Business School. The paper has yet to be peer reviewed. The authors say this rating system also allows lenders making the riskiest mortgages to pass their liability on to everyone else. U.S. government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) that secure mortgages – better known as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac – demand that insurance meets a certain minimum quality standard. That’s especially important in places experiencing more severe catastrophes due to climate change, like Florida. When poor-quality insurance is graded as high-quality, it allows lenders in Florida to move mortgages for homes in vulnerable areas onto the books of Fannie and Freddie, who then bear the liability if they go south. Both GSEs will accept a rating from Demotech that is A or higher. Demotech’s president and co-founder Joseph Petrelli disputed that his agency’s ratings are inflated in any way, calling the paper a “hit job.” He said he was “as surprised as anyone” when those seven firms declared insolvency, and that the real problem with the state insurance market is consumer and contractor fraud. Florida politicians have long blamed high insurance rates on excessive litigation: The state in recent years accounted for almost 80 percent of all U.S. lawsuits related to property claims, due in part to a rule that let homeowners transfer insurance benefits to contractors. Petrelli said litigation is escalating in a way his company couldn’t have anticipated. He cited evidence of law firms backed by deep-pocketed investors that use search engine optimization to find homeowners who want repairs done, and then encourage them to bring suit. “They were targeting insurers,” he said. Jesse Keenan, a Tulane University associate professor who researches the intersection of real estate and climate change and who was not involved with the Harvard analysis, said the findings are troubling. “It is pretty clear that Demotech ratings are not up to par with where you would expect them to be,” Keenan said. Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae both declined to comment on Demotech’s ratings. A spokesperson for Freddie Mac noted that the serious delinquency rate for U.S. single-family homes in its portfolio stood at 0.54 percent in February 2024, the lowest in nearly 20 years. That suggests the numbers are not yet bearing out the theory that they are taking particularly risky mortgages from Florida or anywhere else. Florida, which has embarked on a building boom in some of the most hurricane-prone territory in the world, is contending with a well-publicized insurance crisis. Rates are now the most expensive in the nation, according to an analysis by Insurify. The state-backed insurer of last resort is now the biggest home insurer in the state and carries more than $500 billion in exposure. The state’s struggle to hold onto private insurers is what brought Demotech to Florida in the first place. In the wake of 1992’s Hurricane Andrew, many Floridians were denied coverage by the private market. So they turned to the insurer of last resort, Citizens Property Insurance Corp. The state, for its part, tried to get people back onto private insurance. But many larger companies were shrinking their exposure to the riskiest markets. That left a lot of smaller, less diversified insurers with less capital to take their place. It’s difficult for such insurers to get a top rating from AM Best or Moody’s Corp., whose methodologies mark companies down for those very qualities. Demotech rates the smaller firms with a different methodology that it says is more appropriate to them. (Its website features a dragonfly and a T-Rex, noting it’s the smaller animal that has evaded extinction.) This approach allows insurers a higher reinsurance to capital ratio. Unlike capital reserves, reinsurance can be canceled. Home insurance industry may be worse than anyone realizes By Leslie Kaufman | Bloomberg Established 32 Years in Indian River County (772) 562-2288 | www.kitchensvero.com 3920 US Hwy 1, Vero Beach FL 32960

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | REAL ESTATE May 2, 2024 17 Since 1990, both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have deemed companies with an A or better rating from Demotech as acceptable. Petrelli said that after Andrew, the then-commissioner of the Florida Office of Insurance (now the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation) begged Demotech to help the state, and in 1996 he agreed to. “We really stepped up” in a time of need, he said. Michael Yaworsky, the current commissioner of the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (FLOIR), said he couldn’t speak to the circumstances around Demotech entering the Florida market. In a very short time, however, Demotech went from having no business in Florida to rating at its peak well over half of property insurers there. The company rated 95 percent of the insurers who accepted policies being transferred from the state-back insurer, Citizens, according to the Harvard paper, allowing Florida to depopulate its state program. In 2012, 200,000 state policies were transferred to Demotech-approved insurers, the Harvard paper added. Using a database kept by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the researchers tracked insurance company liquidations in Florida between 2009 and 2022. They found that “19 percent of Demotech insurers entered rehabilitation proceedings in the past decade, while none of the traditional insurers did.” Petrelli criticized the researchers’ methodology but said he wasn’t surprised at the figure: After all, Demotech dominated the market, so it makes sense that a disproportionate share of the bankrupt companies would be its clients. Yaworsky said the Harvard study is based on “dated” information and rejected the idea that small insurers in Florida are weak. The main cause of insurance failure in the state in 2021 and 2022 was “pervasive and abusive insurance fraud,” he said. Legislative reforms passed in 2022 are already turning the insurance market around, he says: Eight new insurers have entered the state. “Three insurers announced recently that they’re actually going to be filing with us to reduce their property insurance rates,” said Yaworsky. “This study cites data from over a decade ago. It seems to me that the market and the industry has moved on.” There are fewer than a dozen companies registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to provide credit ratings for insurance companies in the U.S. Some are familiar names, like S&P Global Inc. But Demotech is rare in specializing in rating smaller companies. Only a few such companies have ratings accepted by Fannie and Freddie. Raters use different methodologies, and their grades don’t necessarily match up. The authors of the study ran a model to compare Demotech’s ratings to those of a larger competitor, AM Best. The researchers independently devised a facsimile of AM Best’s model and then used it to rate nearly 50 Florida companies that Demotech had in fact rated. The exercise, they wrote, “suggests that the vast majority of these insurers would likely be rated ‘junk’ if they received their rating from a traditional rating agency rather than Demotech.” Or in other words, if Demotech were to use AM Best’s methodology, nearly two-thirds of its rated insurers would not meet Freddie Mac’s standards and 21 percent would not meet Fannie Mae’s. Petrelli said this is conjecture. He noted the authors themselves admit their “counterfactual” model only explains close to 60 percent of the variation between Demotech’s and AM Best’s ratings. He said his own analysis of public filings shows that Demotech companies rated A or higher have similar rates of trouble over a 10-year period as AM Best companies rated B+ or higher. Jeff Mango, managing director of AM Best, said that comparison is “inappropriate” based on both companies’ SEC filings, and added that smaller insurers don’t struggle to obtain high AM Best ratings. Ishita Sen, a co-author and an assistant professor of finance at Harvard Business School, told Bloomberg Green that the GSEs could be powerful watchdogs on insurance raters if they updated their criteria, which they set “at some point way back in the 1990s, and over time have not evaluated whether these thresholds mean the same thing,” she said. Freddie Mac said it “regularly reviews insurance rating requirements to make sure they align with our overall risk appetite.” Fannie Mae said it periodically reviews rating requirements.

18 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | REAL ESTATE www.veronews.com MAINLAND REAL ESTATE SALES: APRIL 22 THROUGH APRIL 26 TOP SALES OF THE WEEK A strong week for mainland real estate sales saw 44 transactions of single-family residences and lots reported (some shown below). The top sale of the week was in Vero Beach, where the 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom home at 7805 Homestead Drive – listed in January for $1,895,000 – sold for $1,325,000 on April 26. Representing the seller in the transaction was agent Scott Mazmanian of Dale Sorensen Real Es- tate Inc. Representing the buyer was agent Kathleen Pogany of Compass Florida LLC. SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCES AND LOTS ORIGINAL SELLING TOWN ADDRESS LISTED ASKING PRICE SOLD PRICE VERO BEACH 7805 HOMESTEAD DR 1/15/2024 $1,895,000 4/26/2024 $1,325,000 VERO BEACH 260 SEA GULL AVE 3/2/2024 $1,199,000 4/25/2024 $1,199,000 VERO BEACH 1205 MARINA VILLAGE CIR UNIT #401 1/11/2024 $1,095,000 4/24/2024 $1,075,000 VERO BEACH 1395 LILYS CAY CIR 12/29/2023 $1,075,000 4/25/2024 $1,000,000 VERO BEACH 1497 LILYS CAY CIR 11/27/2023 $1,050,000 4/22/2024 $937,500 VERO BEACH 1030 DALBELLO WAY 1/24/2024 $860,000 4/23/2024 $850,000 VERO BEACH 2189 42ND CT SW 1/18/2024 $875,000 4/25/2024 $765,000 VERO BEACH 810 CAROLINA CIR SW 8/30/2023 $825,000 4/23/2024 $760,000 VERO BEACH 4025 8TH LN 1/12/2024 $699,000 4/23/2024 $656,000 VERO BEACH 4199 BASKET OAK CIR 2/1/2024 $619,500 4/23/2024 $610,000 VERO BEACH 4105 ABINGTON WOODS CIR 3/8/2024 $619,900 4/25/2024 $600,000 VERO BEACH 6480 HIGH POINT WEST WAY 7/13/2023 $537,791 4/24/2024 $549,000 VERO BEACH 126 PRESTWICK CIR 4/28/2023 $575,000 4/23/2024 $525,000 SEBASTIAN 7665 134TH ST 12/29/2023 $599,900 4/23/2024 $510,860 Stats were pulled 4/27/24 at 1:43 PM

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | REAL ESTATE May 2, 2024 19 HERE ARE SOME OF THE TOP RECENT INDIAN RIVER COUNTY REAL ESTATE SALES. Listing Date: Original Price: Sold: Selling Price: Listing Agent: Selling Agent: Listing Date: Original Price: Sold: Selling Price: Listing Agent: Selling Agent: Listing Date: Original Price: Sold: Selling Price: Listing Agent: Selling Agent: Listing Date: Original Price: Sold: Selling Price: Listing Agent: Selling Agent: 11/27/2023 $1,050,000 4/22/2024 $937,000 Jesse Hatmaker Compass Florida LLC Jesse Hatmaker Compass Florida LLC 1497 Lilys Cay Cir, Vero Beach 12/29/2023 $1,075,000 4/25/2024 $1,000,000 Barbara Rosenbaum Engel & Voelkers Lucy Hendricks Compass Florida LLC 1395 Lilys Cay Cir, Vero Beach 1/11/2024 $1,095,000 4/24/2024 $1,075,000 Karen Smith ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty Karen Smith ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty 1205 Marina Village Cir Unit #401, Vero Beach 3/2/2024 $1,199,000 4/25/2024 $1,199,000 T.P. Kennedy Alex MacWilliam, Inc. NOT PROVIDED Not Provided 260 Sea Gull Ave, Vero Beach

20 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | REAL ESTATE www.veronews.com Local Artist Deb Ankiel Seasonal Sale! For more information and special pricing contact [email protected] debankielpotteryflorida.com Debbie Colandrea debankiel Commercial real estate was one of the scariest assets in the U.S. last year. This year, investors are warming to it once again – and that has helped revive a key property debt market. Investors have snapped up about $24.6 billion of new commercial mortgage backed securities so far in 2024, 170 percent more than the same period in 2023, according to data compiled by Bloomberg News. Spreads on the riskiest portions of CMBS deals have been among the top performers compared to other widely traded types of credit. When lightning-quick bankruptcies felled several regional lenders last year and interest rates seemed on an endless march higher and the commercial-property market all but ground to a halt. CMBS issuance plunged, and spreads blew out. Now those fears are receding. A once-frozen market for office towers is seeing deals again, and major real estate investors including Blackstone Inc. are greenlighting big investments in a sign that they believe property markets have begun to rebound. Add to that a Federal Reserve that has signaled the end of rate increases – notwithstanding recent suggestions of a longer-than-expected timeline for cuts – and investors are once again ready to dive into new issues. “Investors have warmed significantly to commercial real estate this year,” said TJ Durkin, head of structured credit and specialty finance at TPG Angelo Gordon. “It’s much different than the fear that characterized last year.” Among the highlights this year are a $2.35 billion CMBS issued by Blackstone. That deal, which priced in March, is backed by a portfolio of 186 industrial properties across 11 states. For CMBS buyers, the difference between this year and last is that they are no longer applying blanket assumptions to the sector, said Morris Chen, a portfolio manager at DoubleLine Group LP. Instead, they are “sharpening their pencils,” looking for value on a deal-by-deal basis. “Back then the market was overly bearish, thinking about the worst possible outcome,” said Chen. “It began to look beat up compared to other asset classes. That’s brought investors back in.” Demand for deals has driven spreads tighter, with CMBS bonds rated BBBshrinking more than 250 basis points from a year ago, according to Citigroup Inc. data as of April 22. Only private residential mortgage backed securities and some of the riskiest collateralized loan tranches have done better, while investment-grade and high-yield corporate debt, asset-backed bonds and agency borrowing have not narrowed as much. Those tighter spreads in turn are helping draw in more borrowers. “Borrowers have been holding out for an opportunity to refinance debt with short-term maturities and now they’re seizing on lower spreads to do it,” said Raviv Shtaingos, head of structured credit at ORIX Corporation USA. Much of the shift in sentiment has occurred over the past few months, as a consensus developed that the Fed’s next move will be to lower interest rates. That is good news for the bond investors and real estate owners – and issuers – who had been waiting for clarity on the end of the hikes. “People have been listening to the Fed and looking at economic data and concluding, ‘Rates are coming down or stabilizing, now is a good time to do deals,’” said Paul Staples, a trader at Academy Securities Inc. To be sure, the gloom hasn’t entirely lifted. There is still a long way to go to refinance a CMBS maturity wall that stood at $210 billion at the end of last year. And as long as interest rates remain above the super-low levels many borrowers locked in during the pandemic, valuation drops will continue to ripple through property markets as “cap rates” – a key metric used to price commercial real estate – adjust upward. In recent weeks, of course, hot inflation data has upended some of that certainty about the Fed’s interest rate plans. Policy makers will meet next week and traders will parse Chair Jerome Powell’s comments for clues about the latest thinking around easing policy. But perhaps surprisingly, a higher-for-longer rate outlook may actually help lift CMBS issuance levels for the remainder of the year, according to a note by Bank of America Corp. strategists Alan Todd and Henry Brooks last week. Commercial real estate debt is back with 170% jump in sales By Scott Carpenter | Bloomberg

CONTINUED ON PAGE B3 HPV PROVIDES MORE CAUSE FOR CONCERN BONZ MEETS SWEET B14 B8 AND SELFLESS NALA B10 HOUSE OF THE WEEK: A MILLSTONE BEAUTY ELEVEN FROM HEAVEN YOUNG SINGERS SOAR AT VERO OPERA’S RISING STARS CONCERT PAGE B2 Alexandra Razskazoff. The Vero Beach High School will have its Spring Orchestra Concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 2. You can see it in person or online. This is the final concert of the school’s band department. Tickets are $5 to $12. The following week, starting 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 7, the school will have its 4th Annual Chroma Choral Concert “One Day at a Time.” That concert will also be available live and online. Tickets are $5 to $12. The Vero Beach High School Performing Arts Center is at 1707 16th St. Call 772-564-5537 or visit VeroBeachPerformingArts.com. Riverside Theatre’s Comedy Zone presents James Yon and Absar Siddiqui this weekend in their individual standup comedy shows. P-Mac will emcee. The shows begin at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on both Friday, May 3, and Saturday, May 4. Tickets are $25. Be sure to give yourself enough time to enjoy a free concert Vero High band highlight: Spring Orchestra Concert By Pam Harbaugh | Correspondent Coming Up 1 2

B2 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | ARTS & THEATRE www.veronews.com The stage at the Vero Beach High School Performing Arts Center was dramatically empty, save for a vast, starry blue backdrop and an elegant ebony grand piano, as the audience of opera lovers leafed through their programs in anticipation of an evening of great music featuring diverse, exciting arias performed by some of the absolute best young operatic talent in the world today. It was the Vero Beach Opera’s annual Rising Stars Vocal Competition Awards Concert, the culmination of a three-day event featuring 11 young singers, all of whom have performance experience and are already making names for themselves, having won prestigious awards in the Metropolitan Opera Laffont competitions and others. The competition itself took place during the two previous, grueling days as four mezzo sopranos, four sopranos, two tenors and one countertenor gave their all, vying for the first, second and third prizes. By the night of the awards concert, the winners had been chosen, and were announced at its conclusion. The 2024 Grand Prize winner and recipient of the $10,000 first prize was soprano Alexandra Razskazoff, who performed “Song to the Moon” from Dvořák’s “Rusalka,” which echoes the story of the Little Mermaid. Rusalka is a water nymph who falls in love with a prince, and her song is a plea to the moon to reveal her love to the prince. As Rusalka, Razskazoff captivated, informing her character with hope and longing. Razskazoff’s career highlights include being named Grand Finals Winner in the 2022 Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition, and making her international debut in Santiago, Chile, singing Mimi in “La Boheme.” The captivating soprano advanced to the semifinals of in the prestigious 2021 Operalia Vocal Competition in Moscow, and took first place in both the James Toland Vocal Arts Competition and the Giovanni Consiglio International Competition, and third in several others. Razskazoff has been praised by the New York Times as “a richly faceted, slinky soprano whose voice is rich, distinctive of timbre and penetrating.” In a lighthearted “Rapid Fire” mini interview following the final performance of the final day of competition, Razskazoff dubbed herself (and other young singers seeking to advance their careers) “nomads,” although she currently calls St. Pete home. As a child, Razskazoff recalls singing “Eensy-Weensy Spider” with her Dad (including the hand motions); and she sees opera as a way to momentarily “escape into someone else’s life, their troubles and experiences.” Taking second place and the accompanying $5,000 prize was Armenian American soprano Tatev Baroyan. Having been born in Yerevan, Armenia, into a family of musicians, she possesses “a background rooted in music from a young age.” Baroyan was initially a piano major, and then studied vocal performance before coming to the U.S., where she graduated from Sarasota’s Opera Apprenticeship Program. The 2022-23 season was an outstanding and busy one for Baroyan. She won first prize in the Florida District and second in the Southeast Region for the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition, and was also a finalist and recipient of the Hope for the Future of Opera Award in the Batumian Rhapsody International Vocal Competition “Golden Voice of Opera.” Her choice for the Awards Concert was the Snow Maiden’s aria from Rimsky-Korsakov’s Russian fairytale opera “The Snow Maiden.” Baroyan’s clean, clear and compelling voice inhabited the titular teenage girl with a heart of ice, whose very existence offends the Sun God. Only when she learns to love, and her heart melts, will the Sun God be appeased and bring about the arrival of summer. In the Rapid Fire interview, Baroyan said she sees opera as “a way for humanity to communicate without necessarily having to understand.” The $3,000 third prize was awarded to tenor Daniel Espinal, currently in the final year of his graduate degree at Yale, already having earned a bachelor’s degree from the Manhattan School of Music. The charismatic tenor is the Grand Finals Winner in the 2024 Met Opera Laffont Competition (which he calls a “dream come true”) and, during the 2022-23 season, he was a young artist in San Francisco Opera’s Merola Opera Program. He also recently appeared as Tom Rakewell in “The Rake’s Progress” at Yale Opera and, this coming season, Young singers dazzle at Vero Opera’s Rising Stars concert Demetrious Sampson Jr. Daniel Espinal. Katherine DeYoung. Tatev Baroyan. Qirong Liang. Emily Richter. Anna Fateeva and Midori Marsh. Simona Genga. Randall Romig, Susan Neves, Gregory Buchalter, and Roman Ortega-Cowan. PHOTOS: JOSHUA KODIS Gabrielle Beteag. BY SAMANTHA ROHLFING BAITA CORRESPONDENT Chuanyuan Liu.

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | ARTS & THEATRE May 2, 2024 B3 he’ll join the Ryan Opera Center at Chicago’s Lyric Opera as an apprentice artist. Espinal views opera as “a great way to connect with people and let my inner soul shine.” Espinol chose to perform “Salut! Demeure chaste et pure” from Gounod’s romantic tragedy “Faust,” an aria Faust sings, having sold his soul to the devil, as he sends Mephistopheles in search of a gift for his love interest, Marguerite, who has fallen in love with him. Espinol projected desire and longing with depth, clarity and, as one critic put it, “without needing vocal theatrics.” His vocal teacher at Yale speaks of the “distinctive color of his voice” and his “natural charisma, neither of which can be taught.” A $1,000 Encouragement Award was presented to each of the remaining eight talented competitors, provided by the Sergio Franchi Music Foundation; the Louis L. Lawson Legacy Fund; In Memory of Sofia Blanchard; Tommy and Simonetta Steyer; and the Windsor Foundation. Those recipients were: mezzo-soprano Gabrielle Beteag, mezzo-soprano Katherine DeYoung, mezzo-soprano Simona Genga, mezzo-soprano Qirong Liang, countertenor Chuanyuan Liu, soprano Midori Marsh, soprano Emily Richter and tenor Demetrious Sampson Jr. Vero audiences were already familiar with the evening’s accompanist, Anna Fateeva, who was pianist at VBO’s recent “Best of Broadway and Opera” and at the 2023 Rising Stars Competition. Fateeva, who holds a doctor of musical arts degree from the University of Miami, has performed with many distinguished artists, including Renee Fleming and others. Another familiar VBO face, Ian Campbell, returned as Master of Ceremonies. Campbell has worked in opera for 55 years, as stage director, artistic director, broadcaster, lecturer, company director and, in his native Australia, as a tenor with Opera Australia. Tasked with the challenge of choosing the winners was an impressive jury: four individuals with a wealth of opera knowledge, all well-known to VBO audiences. Jury president Roman Ortega-Cowan, one of VBO’s founders, is its currently artistic advisor and an operatic baritone. Gregory Buchalter, VBO music director, is a Metropolitan Opera assistant conductor and music director/conductor for Varna International. With a repertoire of some of the most challenging roles in opera, Metropolitan Opera soprano Susan Neves has been acclaimed in opera houses across the globe. Randy Romig is chairman of the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition, SE Region, and an organist for the Georgia Festival Chorus. Following the awards ceremony, the audience was delighted when the 11 finalists came together on stage to sing the wonderful drinking song from Verdi’s La Traviata, “Libiamo ne’ lieti calici,” a famous duet with chorus and a popular performance choice for sopranos and tenors. A standing ovation completed the evening. In the Loop. Those concerts run from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, May 3, and Saturday, May 4. The Friday concert features the Reckless Shots, a semi-finalist in Memphis’ 2019 International Blue Competition. The group covers a host of artists including John Prine, Tom Petty and more. The Saturday concert features Nashville recording artist Joe Reid and Heartland playing country hits. Food and drink on sale at the concerts include bourbon flights, cold brews and bacon specials. Riverside Theatre is at 3250 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach. Call 772-231-6990 or visit RiversideTheatre.com. The Vero Beach Air Show will take place this weekend. The show features the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and other well regarded aerial performers. There will also be aircraft displays and other activities. Admission starts at $25 for Friday night and $50 for Saturday or Sunday. Children 12 and younger are admitted free with a paying adult. There are discounts for military members and veterans. Funds raised will help benefit the Veterans Council of Indian River County and the Child Abuse Prevention programs of the Exchange Clubs of Indian River and Vero Beach. The shows run 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Vero Beach Regional Airport, 3400 Cherokee Dr. For more information, visit VeroAirShow.com. The 2024 Vero Beach Air Show Food Fest begins at 5 p.m. Saturday, May 4, in the Under the Oaks Park next to Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Dr. The Food Fest is free to attend. It features a wide assortment of food trucks, live music by Collins & Company, a kids’ zone with face painting, balloon art, crafts and more. Held in conjunction with the Vero Beach Air Show, the Food Fest will have members of the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Team in attendance to pose for photos and sign autographs. For more information, visit VeroAirShow.com. The Vero Beach Theatre Guild presents the musical comedy “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown” from May 3 to May 12. The show is based on the Charles Schultz comic strip “Peanuts.” Tickets are $15 to $40. The show performs at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. The Vero Beach Theatre Guild is at 2020 San Juan Ave. Call 772-562- 8300 or visit VeroBeachTheatreGuild.com. 3 4 5 The VNA & Hospice Foundation’s 34th Annual Golf-A-Thon will be held Monday, May 6, at Grand Harbor’s championship golf course. The course, designed by Pete Dye, is described as a traditional course that brings to mind “historic Scottish Links-style of tiered greens, undulating fairways and deep pot bunkers.” The golf course also boasts majestic views with an old-world aesthetic. There are 13 2024 Golf-A-Thon professional participants from a wide range of golfing clubs in the area. Donations to support one of these golfers start at $150. The Grand Harbor Golf and Beach Club is at 4985 Club Terrace, Vero Beach. For more information, call 772-978-5591 or visit VNATC.org. Team ORCA Data Jam takes place at the Riverhouse, 305 Acacia Road, Vero Beach. Entrants will display scientific datasets in artistic ways. The event runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 9. For more information, visit TeamORCA.org. The Art at the Emerson will host a reception from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 9 for its exhibition, “Our Wondrous Planet.” The exhibit showcases environmental art and features the traveling exhibit “World of Away,” which is described as an “eco-art experience.” The Emerson Center is at 1590 27th Ave., Vero Beach. Call 772-778-5880 or visit ArtAtTheEmerson.com. 6 7 8 CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

4 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | DINING & WINE www.veronews.com Choose a two or three course family-style menu with a selection of appetizers, salads, and entrées. Dessert and wines are also available. Your meal will be packaged in oven-safe serving containers along with reheating instructions. Scan for details and to order 3103 Cardinal Drive, Vero Beach, FL (772) 234-3966 • tidesofvero.com Open Daily at 5pm • Reservations Highly Recommended • Proper Attire Appreciated CELEBRATING OVER 24 YEARS Fine Dining, Elevated • Exciting Innovative Cuisine Award Winning Wine List • Unparalleled Service Let THE TIDES Make Your Family’s Dinner on Mother’s Day Pick-up available on Saturday, May 11 from 11:00 am-2:00 pm

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B6 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | DINING www.veronews.com 56 Royal Palm Pointe 772-567-4160 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram OPEN FOR DINNER WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY BEGINNING AT 4 PM. CLOSED MONDAY & TUESDAY. THE ENTIRE MENU IS AVAILABLE FOR TAKEOUT ONLINE ORDERING WITH TOASTTAKEOUT.COM SALADS, PASTA, VEAL, CHICKEN , SUBS AND DESSERTS OPEN WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY 1931 Old Dixie • 772.770.0977 fishackverobeach.com • Like us on Facebook! Gift Certificates, Private Parties & Patio Dining Available We Will Reimburse for Parking. HAPPY HOUR 4-6 PM l TUES.- SAT. WE CAN ACCOMMODATE LARGE PARTIES TUES OPEN FOR DINNER AT 4 I ALL YOU CAN EAT FISH FRY WED-SAT OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER CLOSED SUNDAYS & MONDAYS OFFERING Local Fish Northern Fish Patio Dining Happy Hour Best Margaritas Full Liquor Bar Large Parties Daily Specials

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | GAMES May 2, 2024 B7 Even experts err occasionally By Phillip Alder - Bridge Columnist In empathy with the summer weather, the Senior Life Master was really warming to his classes, and the students were warming to him. This particular Saturday it was standing room only, the 100-degree temperature outside not hurting attendance. Sometimes (the SLM began) bridge players below the top level think that experts never make mistakes. We may rest assured that this isn’t the case. As you cannot see all of the cards, it is impossible to do the right thing all of the time. Also, there are occasions when an expert makes not only a mistake but a downright howler. This deal was played at the 1979 European Team Championships in Lausanne, Switzerland. Auctions that start at the five-level are something of a lottery. You should try to get the best result possible, not the best possible result. Against six spades, West led the club queen. East overtook with the king and continued with the ace. South ruffed high, and West discarded a diamond. Next, declarer drew trumps. Then, he cashed the diamond king, played a diamond to the ace, led a low heart to his ace and finessed the heart 10. East gratefully scooped up the queen: down one. Declarer had won this title in 1977. However, not this time! As I’m sure you have all noticed, he should have ruffed the diamond five in his hand at trick nine. When East discarded, he would be known to have begun with no spades, two diamonds and nine clubs, and therefore exactly two hearts. The moral: Always get a complete count when you can. Dealer: West; Vulnerable: North-South NORTH 7 3 2 K J 8 4 3 A 5 4 7 3 WEST 9 8 6 5 7 5 Q J 8 6 3 2 Q SOUTH A K Q J 10 4 A 10 9 2 K 9 10 EAST ___ Q 6 10 7 A K J 9 8 6 5 4 2 The Bidding: OPENING LEAD: Q Clubs SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST Pass Pass 5 Clubs Dbl. Pass 5 Hearts Pass 6 Spades Pass Pass Pass

B8 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | GAMES www.veronews.com The Telegraph How to do Sudoku: Fill in the grid so the numbers one through nine appear just once in every column, row and three-by-three square. The Telegraph SOLUTIONS TO PREVIOUS ISSUE (APRIL 25TH) ON PAGE B11 ACROSS 1. Bite (3) 3. Garden tool (3) 5. City in central France (4) 7. Circle (5) 8. Debated (6) 10. Drama (4) 11. Verdict (8) 13. Favour (6) 14. Available to buy (2,4) 17. Accepts (8) 19. Twist (4) 21. Norse raider (6) 22. Govern (5) 23. US university (4) 24. Neckwear (3) 25. Affirmative (3) DOWN 1. The Daily Telegraph, The Times etc (10) 2. Ready (7) 3. Gripped (4) 4. Stationery item (6) 5. Illumination (8) 6. Expanse of water (5) 9. Persons accused (10) 12. Prescription (8) 15. Facility (7) 16. Altitude (6) 18. Pottery (5) 20. Correct (4)

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | GAMES May 2, 2024 B9 ACROSS 1 Pool shot 6 1950s spray 9 1950s nickname 12 60’s women’s lib. target 15 Type of memory 18 Nichelle on Star Trek 19 Soaring pros 21 Mr. X’s favorite place? 23 Mr. X’s favorite form of trickery? 25 Tuneful 26 Recede 27 Beatles tune, “You Won’t ___” 28 Mr. X’s favorite baseball nickname? 30 Pro votes 33 ___ Lisa 35 Tommy followup 36 Water-softening process, ___ exchange 37 Mr. X’s favorite cartoon character? 42 Order: abbr. 45 Draw out 46 Second word of an Elvis film 47 Gina’s good 49 Sooner city 53 Czech statesman Jan (anagram of ASK MARY) 55 Mr. X’s favorite food? 57 Manilow’s long-time label 58 “What ___?” 60 Little bird 61 Was awarded 62 Cold mo. 63 Least sincere 68 Quarter of eight 69 Whirlpool product 70 Mr. X’s favorite film? 72 Brother of George 75 Unit of work 77 Grows 80 Dallas sch. 83 Chopping-spree buy 84 Damn Yankees role 86 Long time 87 Furry prowler 89 Mr. X’s favorite country singer? 94 Rid of certain insects 95 Play thing? 96 Touched by an Angel star 97 Journal addition 99 Composer Berg 100 Homer’s path 102 Mr. X’s favorite outdoor advice? 105 Dada artist 108 Tree type 110 Nostalgic time 111 Appear menacing 112 Mr. X’s favorite R&B singer? 117 Poe preceder 119 Ready follower 122 Like some skirts 123 Mr. X 127 Mr. X’s favorite song? 128 Sin 129 Tube dweeb 130 Sightseer? 131 With op, a computer mgr. 132 Giant of home run fame 133 Vit. info 134 Pro votes DOWN 1 Die, for one 2 Obsessed captain 3 Mr. X’s favorite dance tunes? 4 Poet’s planet 5 China chief, once 6 Stunned state 7 Sticky situation 8 L.A. shakes 9 Stuff in a chest? 10 Reeve role 11 Bible bk. 12 Cuban dance 13 The Gipper’s grippers 14 Composed 15 Spokes 16 Acid type 17 City in Georgia 20 “Would you like to see ___?” 22 Balaban or Barker 24 Bones, in science 29 Heretofore 31 Rec centers 32 Roger’s kin 34 “Fernando” foursome 37 “Don’t ___ at me ...” 38 “Not on ___!” 39 Rev.’s initials 40 Moocher 41 Highball? 43 People prefix 44 Praetor’s pronoun 48 Main arteries 50 Record books 51 Intercept 52 Celluloid canine 54 November treat 55 Action star ___ James (anagram of ROBIN) 56 Attach a patch, e.g. 58 Casual day: abbr. 59 Intro to science? 64 Fisherman 65 Latin abbr. 66 Stony mass on a slope 67 Lt. Kojak 71 The Sunflower St. 72 Pickle preservers 73 Corp. VIP 74 Actress Neuwirth 75 Oscar role for Burt 76 Bird in a tale 78 French season 79 County bordering Napa (and it’s not Sonoma) 80 Mr. X’s favorite outdoor gear? 81 Nomadic Kenyan 82 Knoxville sch. 85 “Is there ___ in here?” 88 Very, to Verdi 90 Santa ___ CA 91 Contacting info: abbr. 92 Grammar bestseller, Woe ___ 93 Cognac brand, ___ Martin 94 “In excelsis ___” 97 Prior 98 Caught wind of 101 Visited 103 2-by-4 104 Arm bone 105 Plentiful 106 Type of race 107 USNA freshman 109 Fizzy orders 113 Ovine sound 114 Twenty devices? 115 Riviera resort, San ___ 116 Give off 118 Joe Tynan portrayer 120 “Uh-huh ... right ...” 121 TV diner 124 Werner Erhard’s program 125 Dude 126 Ain’t antonym The Telegraph The Washington Post ...He’ll just throw something together The Man in the White Suit By Merl Reagle

B10 May 2, 2024 VeroNews/Sebastian River News | PETS www.veronews.com This week I innerviewed a charming bulldog mixture, Nala Smith, one of those compact liddle pooches shaped sorta like loafs of bread with sweet, squishy faces. Nala, in a pretty pink collar, anna lady greeted us at the padio gate. “Good morning! Miss Nala I pre-zoom,” I said, innerducing myself an my assistant. “Yes! That’s ME!” she said happily. “Sometimes my Mom calls me Na-lalalala! This is her, Susan! I also have Mom 2, Miss Wendy. When My Mom hasta be away, I get to have a SLEEPover with Miss Wendy. Anyway, Mr. Bonzo, I always read your coll-um, ever since I learned it was for Reading Only, NOT for, well, you know …” She trailed off. “No worries, Miss Nala,” I assured her. “It’s a common pooch mistake!” “Oh, good! (It was just that once.) Come in!” Nala led the way, then snuggled next to her Mom. I opened my notebook. “I’m ready to hear your tail, Miss Nala!” “This is so exciting, Mr. Bonzo! So, Mom has a FARM way up near a place called Madison at the top of the state. (She pointed.) She’s also in charge of, like, some kinda important piece of wood or something. It’s called, umm, a BOARD, here at the HewMANE Society, an she knows everybuddy in the Madison shelter, too. One day she stopped there to say hello to her Shelter fren Miss Jennifer, who told her about this Momma pooch and her puppers (includin’ ME) who got rescued from Dire Straits. Our Momma was chained up in a dis-mull back yard with no food or wader and no place to go when it was rainin’ or cold. An we couldn’t even reach our Momma for comfort cuz we were outside, too, but in cages.” “Oh, for Lassie’s sake, that’s terrible!” I blurted. “It WAS! We were skinny an dirty an had HART Worms, which is Totally Soggy Dog Biscuits. We didn’t all make it, but Miss Jennifer took care of me an SAVED me. “Anyway, we were, probly about 3 months old then. Our Momma an my sibs got adopted. Miss Jessica told Mom I was the last pupper left, an Woof, was I cute! Well, when me an Mom saw each other I just had this FEELIN’. I’m pretty sure so did Mom. So I got adopted. It was May, Twenny-Twenny-Three. Mom gave me shots for the ukky HART worms, and I got All Better. I loved the farm right away, an all the ani-mulls. I’d never got to run all over the place or have ackshull FUN buh-for. It was WONDERFUL! There are CHIGGENS! An COWS! I LOVE cows! I run around with ’em an pruh-tend I’m a cow, too. They just laff an try to not step on me. “AN, guess what? When I got my Furever Famly, I got two brothers anna SIS-ter. My Big Brother Blue’s a Black Lab, an Sydney an Sam are CATS, with a funny name, Ragdoll, cuzza bein’ all flopsy.” “I think I spotted ’em in the living room,” I said. “One on the MAN-tull an one onna chair. They’re pretty Big!” “Troo! Almost big as me. Me an Blue run around a lot, but I get pooped way sooner than him. He’s LOTS bigger than me. Plus, bein’ a Lab, he LOVES the pool. Me, not so much since I swim like a rock. But I do enjoy the outside shower. “Any pooch pals?” “Totes! Superman, a bulldog; Cooper, a Golden Re-TREE-ver; Diva, an Ooodle, I forget which sort; Ryder, a Chocolate Lab pupper; Bodie, she’s a German Shepherd. An my BFF Zucca. “An me an Mom are each other’s BEST Besties. We’re both fond of snuggles. An we have a roo-TEEN: I wake Mom up for breakfast at 4:30. On The Dot. (I’ve never seen the Dot, I think it’s real liddle. But Mom knows where it is.)” “WAIT! WHAT? You mean 4:30 A.M.? When it’s still DARK?” “Yep. Then me an Blue Do Our DUTY, then we go back to sleep. Then at 6:30, Blue wakes Mom an me up for good. An we all go for a brisky morning walk in our Cool Kibbles neighborhood. Sometimes we go to the park. An sometimes Mom drives the golf cart an I trot along, or ride. An Blue runs! TRAY fun! “Oo, an this is really Crispy Biscuits: Me an Mom had this Very Important Project in Madison. The shelter got duh-STROYED in that hurricane last year, so me an Mom went up to help Miss Jennifer. I suggested to Mom that we should build some speshull, spay-shus one-pooch shelters, and we ended up doin’ 60! I thought it’d be a good plan to get a washer-an-dryer also cuz the volunteers used, like, a zillion donated towels for snuggly pooch beds, an they were washin’ em by paw, er, by hand rather. See, Mr. Bonzo,” her smushy liddle face became serious, “I feel I should do everything I can for them cuz they saved my entire LIFE.” “That is inspiring, Miss Nala,” I said. “I always try to help at the shelters (that’s called bein’ a Volun-TEER, an we’re Really Important!) cuz I wanna help Pets Less Fortunate (PLFs) find Furever Homes like I did. Dogs AN Cats. Didja know right now is the start of Kitten Season? So we need LOTSA foster homes, even for just a weekend, so shelter residents can get away for a while, ya know? It’s very important!” “I didn’t ree-lize that, Miss Nala.” “OOO, an Guess What ELSE? In Joon we’re getting a Really Big ’nother, umm, it’s a, umm, THRIFF Shop. Mom says it’s gonna have a whole lot of feet. Square ones! Which I totally don’t understand. Anyway, humans’ll bring nice stuff they don’t need and other humans’ll buy ’em so the shelter can keep helpin’ PLFs.” Headin’ home, I felt very impressed with liddle Miss Nala’s Very Important Mission to help Pets Less Fortunate. An I had to laugh, picturing the charming liddle loaf of bread with the smushy face racing around pretendin’ to be a cow. We are always looking for pets with interesting stories. To set up an interview, email [email protected]. The Bonz Dog Buddies! Sweet and selfless Nala is a friend to all pooches DON’T BE SHY Hi Nala PHOTO BY JOSHUA KODIS

Serving mainland Indian River County VeroNews/Sebastian River News | CALENDAR May 2, 2024 B11 Space Coast Symphony Orchestra presents its 15th Anniversary Celebration, 3 p.m. at VB High School PAC. SpaceCoastSymphony.org Memorial Day Ceremony, 8:30 a.m. on Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary, hosted by the Veterans Council of IRC. Memorial Day Ceremony, 9 a.m. outdoors at the Navy SEAL Museum, with keynote speaker Capt. (SEAL) Bill Wilson, USN (Ret.). Free admission to the museum from 9 a.m. to noon. NavySealMuseum.org Concerts in the Park presented by Sebastian Chamber of Commerce, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Riverview Park featuring Tom MacLear and Renele. Free; BYO lawn chair. SebastianChamber.com Our directory gives small business people eager to provide services to the community an opportunity to make themselves known to our readers at an affordable cost. This is the only business directory mailed each week. If you would like your business to appear in our directory, please call 772-633-0753. This is also where we publish Fictitious Name or “Doing Business As” notices, Public Notices and Employment ads. To place one, please email [email protected]. Time to Clean Your Carpets/Furniture? Maxfield Carpet Cleaning • 772-538-0213 5300 N. A1A, Vero Beach • SINCE 1979 Three Reasons to Call Mitch Maxfield: QUALITY: My “2-step system” removes even tough ground-in dirt. All work guaranteed. SERVICE: I, personally, will clean your carpets and furniture. PRICE: Two (2) Rooms (any size)...$77, 6’ Sofa or 2 Chairs...$66 Sudoku Page B8 Sudoku Page B9 Crossword Page B8 Solutions from Games Pages in April 25th, 2024 Edition Crossword Page B9 (OO-EE, BABY! 2) BUSINESS DIRECTORY - ADVERTISING INDIAN RIVER COUNTY BUSINESSES Check with organizations directly for updates/ cancellations. Riverside Theatre: “On Your Feet! The story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan,” through May 5; Fri. and Sat. Comedy Zone Experience and Live in the Loop concerts. RiversideTheatre.com Spring Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m. at Vero Beach High School PAC and livestreamed. 772-564-5537 Vero Beach Air Show featuring U.S. Navy Blue Angels and other aerial performers, aircraft displays and other activities to benefit Veterans Council of IRC, and the child abuse prevention programs of Exchange Club of IR and Exchange Club of VB, with shows 6 to 8:30 p.m. Fri.; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat. and Sun. VeroAirShow.com Vero Beach Theatre Guild presents the musical comedy “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown.” VeroBeach TheatreGuild.com or 772-562-8300 Friends of Sebastian River Paddle Fest, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the South Prong of the St. Sebastian River, with prizes, photo contest, Publix sandwich box. $35. 321-343-2163 or fssr.org The Sky’s the Limit inaugural Juried Bird Gallery Show & Art Fair presented by Pelican Island Audubon Society and Isola Arts, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. at PIAS building on Oslo Rd. IsolaArts.org May Pops Concert: Lullabies of Broadway at Windsor Polo Grounds featuring the Brevard Symphony Orchestra, to advance technology and patient care at Cleveland Clinic Indian River. Gates open at 3 p.m., concert at 4:30 p.m. 772-226-4955 or maypopsinvero.com. VNA & Hospice Foundation Golf-A-Thon, with golf pros from local clubs playing throughout the day at Grand Harbor Golf Club to raise funds for VNA programs and services. vnatc.org ‘One Day at a Time’ Chroma Choral Concert, 7 p.m. at Vero Beach High School PAC and livestreamed. 772-564-5537 Team ORCA Data Jam at the Riverhouse, with entrants displaying scientific datasets in artistic ways, 4 p.m. Competition Showcase and Awards; 6 p.m. presentation by Edie Widder, ORCA CEO on Why Art Matters. TeamORCA.org Block Party, Torchbearer Trike Wars, and Thank You Celebration hosted by the United Way of IRC, 5 p.m. at Sailfish Brewery, with live music, street bars and food available. UnitedWayIRC.org Through the Eye of the Camera, a juried exhibition at A.E. Backus Museum, with works by photographers in four categories: Animal, Flora & Landscape, People/Portrait, and Open. Opening reception 6 p.m. May 10. BackusMuseum.org Take a Kid Fishing, hosted by Kiwanis Club of Vero-Treasure Coast for ages 5 to 12 (adult supervision required), 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Barber Bridge fishing catwalk, followed by free lunch. VeroKiwanis.com or 772-321-0924. All Hazards Disaster Preparedness Expo, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex hosted by the IRC Emergency Management Division. Free. IndianRiver.gov Family & Friends Guided Sailing Day, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Youth Sailing Foundation Community Sailing Center, setting sail on a Hobie catamaran or traditional sailboat with skilled skippers. $100 first adult; $50 second adult (same group/boat); kids free. Limited seats. 772- 492-3243 or ysfirc.org Suncoast School presents the cinematic fundraiser and red carpet premier of Train Story, a student ‘action/suspense/comedy’ directed by Manny Moreira, 7 p.m. at Majestic Theatre. $20 suggested donation. Cultural Connections with Ballet Vero Beach, 4 p.m. at Riverside Theatre, celebrating 10 years of ‘the art of dance as a universal language,’ with hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, conversations and a dance performance. $15. Cultural-Council.org Concerts in the Park presented by Sebastian Chamber of Commerce, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Riverview Park featuring Swamp Dawg. Free; BYO lawn chair. SebastianChamber.com Riverside Dance Festival: A Celebration, hosted by Ballet Vero Beach and Riverside Theatre, Celebrating the ten professional dance companies who have participated in the Riverside Dance Festival over the years: Ariel Rivka Dance, Ballet Vero Beach, Chicago Dance Crash, Chicago Repertory Ballet, Dimensions Dance Theatre of Miami, konverjdans, and Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre. Performances 7:30 p.m. Fri., and 2 p.m. Sat. on the Stark Stage. Tickets $10 to $75. BalletVeroBeach.org Treasure Coast Chorale presents My Favorite Things – A Birthday Concert, 4 p.m. at First Baptist Church accompanied by pianist Judy Carter, guitarist Dave Mundy and drummer Richie Mola, with special guests, the Dolls, the Festival Brass Ensemble, the Carillon Handbell Choir and the Carter Family Singers. $10 donation appreciated. ONGOING MAY 2 4 3-5 3-12 6 7 9 5 4-5 10 10-21 11 11 11 13 15 17 19 26 26 27 7 17-18 JUNE